The Chronicle: Colloquy: The question

THE QUESTION

Ever since he took a post at Princeton University this fall, Peter Singer has been the subject of criticism in the United States by religious and activist groups who accuse him of supporting the killing of babies, old people, and people with disabilities. An article in the new issue of The Chronicle explores the controversy over Mr. Singer and his ideas. The article looks at how many philosophers believe Mr. Singer's ideas are well within the mainstream of his discipline, and that his arguments have been oversimplified or distorted by his critics. What does the controversy about Mr. Singer say about public knowledge of and debate over serious philosophy? Is Mr. Singer part of the mainstream of philosophy today? Are his ideas as dangerous as his critics contend?

For further information, see these background articles:

Why Are We Afraid of Peter Singer? (3/10/2000)
Protests Disrupt First Day of Classes for Controversial Princeton Professor (9/23/1999)

: 50 RESPONSES (New 3/31)

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